What is this medicine?

EXENATIDE (ex EN a tide) is used to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. This medicine may be used with other oral diabetes medicines.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

history of pancreatitis

kidney disease or if you are on dialysis

stomach problems

an unusual or allergic reaction to exenatide, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection under the skin of your upper leg, stomach area, or upper arm. You will be taught how to prepare and give this medicine. Use exactly as directed. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or healthcare provider to get one.

A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

gatifloxacin

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

acetaminophen

birth control pills

digoxin

lisinopril

lovastatin

sulfonylureas

warfarin

Many medications may cause changes in blood sugar, these include:

alcohol containing beverages

aspirin and aspirin-like drugs

chloramphenicol

chromium

diuretics

female hormones, such as estrogens or progestins, birth control pills

heart medicines

isoniazid

male hormones or anabolic steroids

medications for weight loss

medicines for allergies, asthma, cold, or cough

medicines for mental problems

medicines called MAO inhibitors - Nardil, Parnate, Marplan, Eldepryl

niacin

NSAIDS, such as ibuprofen

pentamidine

phenytoin

probenecid

quinolone antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, ofloxacin

some herbal dietary supplements

steroid medicines such as prednisone or cortisone

thyroid hormones

Some medications can hide the warning symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). You may need to monitor your blood sugar more closely if you are taking one of these medications. These include:

beta-blockers, often used for high blood pressure or heart problems (examples include atenolol, metoprolol, propranolol)